Code of ethics and conduct

The purpose of the Code is to identify mandatory requirements and best practice conduct for all government sector employees. The Code applies at all times when employees are acting in the course of, or in connection with, NSW government sector employment. See also the NSW Public Service Commission's Behaving Ethically: A guide for NSW government sector employees.

Code of conduct

The people of New South Wales have an expectation that business of the State will be conducted with efficiency, fairness, impartiality and integrity. The Code of Conduct is intended as a framework for ethical decision making by all staff engaged in the work of the Office of the Children’s Guardian.

Compliance and enforcement

The functions of the Children’s Guardian exercised include the regulation and accreditation of statutory out-of-home care, adoption and children’s employment and, since June 2013, processing and auditing the Working With Children Check, as well as promoting Child Safe practices for organisations that work with children. The Office of the Children's Guardian has developed a Compliance policy (PDF90.7KB) as well as a document outlining the Compliance program for 2015–16. (PDF92.4KB)

Correspondence and email policy

Disability inclusion action plan

NSW government departments, local councils and some other public authorities to develop and implement a DIAP. The plans must be consistent with the State Disability Inclusion Plan and include strategies to increase access and participation. In developing and reviewing their plans, public authorities must consult with people with disability. Find out more from the Disability inclusion action plan. (PDF282.3KB)

Gifts and benefits policy

This policy provides additional guidance on the appropriate reporting of gifts and benefits that may be offered or received by staff in the course of their employment with the Office of the Children’s Guardian.

Memorandum of understanding between the Children's Guardian, Ombudsman and Official Community Visitors

The Children's Guardian, Ombudsman and Official Community Visitors have entered into a memorandum of understanding that sets out how they will work together to promote the best interests of children and young people in statutory/supported residential out-of-home care.

Privacy management plan

Public Interest Disclosure

The Guardian's Internal Reporting Policy establishes a system for the receiving, assessing and dealing with protected disclosures of corrupt conduct, maladministration, serious and substantial waste of public money, and government information contravention – in accordance with the requirements of the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994. This policy is currently under review, but is available on request at kids@kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au.

Sponsorship policy and guidelines

Sponsorship needs to fit within an ethical framework and involve fair and transparent arrangements, accountability as well as valuable returns. This policy is designed to minimise the risks and maximise the benefits for the Office of the Children’s Guardian when managing sponsorship. Find out more from the Sponsorship policy and guidelines. (PDF474.2KB)

Staff Use of Communication Devices Policy

Communication devices, including telephones, mobile phones, facsimiles, internet, email, and access to social media sites, are public resources provided for business purposes, and all employees have a responsibility to ensure their proper use. The Guardian's Staff Use of Communication Policy provides the principles governing the use and management of public resources. This policy is currently under review, but is available on request at kids@kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au